(April 5, 2024) Despite ominous overseas news, a pop in domestic gasoline demand, and oil prices rising to the mid-$80s per barrel, the national average for a gallon of gas climbed just three pennies to $3.56 since last week.  

“Renewed Ukrainian attacks on Russia’s oil infrastructure and increasing tension in the Middle East spiked oil prices recently,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “And with the cost of oil accounting for roughly 60% of what we pay at the pump, there will likely be some upward pressure on prices.”    

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand rose from 8.72 to 9.23 million barrels a day last week. Meanwhile, total domestic gasoline stocks decreased by 4.2 million barrels to 227.8 million barrels. Higher demand and rising oil prices will likely nudge pump prices higher.

Today’s national average of $3.56 is 21 cents more than a month ago and six cents more than a year ago.

Quick Stats

Since last Thursday, these 10 states have seen the largest increases in their averages: Indiana (+19), Arizona (+19), California (+17), Ohio (+15), New Mexico (+15), Utah (+11), Alaska (+10), Kentucky (+10), Nevada, (+10), Idaho (+9). 

The nation’s top 10 most expensive markets: California ($5.20), Hawaii ($4.69), Washington ($4.57), Nevada ($4.49), Oregon ($4.33), Alaska ($4.18), Arizona ($3.97), Illinois ($3.91), Utah ($3.87), and Idaho, ($3.75).